The court heard that Blott, 42, of The Crescent, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough, was made the subject of an interim sexual prevention order on November 12.

Simon Walker, representing Blott, said one of the clauses of the order prevented his client attending football matches involving players aged under 18.

The court heard that Boro have some players aged 16 or 17.

Mr Walker added: “If the opposing team have a 17-year-old substitute he can’t go.”

Ms Hatton agreed to vary the term of the interim order to allow Blott to attend Middlesbrough matches.

The case was adjourned until January 23 next year when a contested hearing will be held.

The interim order - which runs until February next year - currently bans Blott from behaviour such as allowing any child into his home or entering into a relationship with a woman without first informing the police.

Blott, a former professional goalkeeper with Manchester City, carried out the attacks between 1993 and 1995 while serving in the Cleveland force.

He was described in court in 1998 as “arrogant, egocentric and devoid of remorse.”

He maintained his innocence even after being convicted of the rapes and sexual assault by a jury.